What is Tazorac?
It is a prescription cream or gel used to treat psoriasis, acne, and wrinkles. It belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A. Tazorac works by preventing the formation of new skin cells and promoting the turnover of existing skin cells.
Health Benefits
Tazorac has been shown to be effective in treating psoriasis, acne, and wrinkles.
Psoriasis
Tazorac is a common treatment for psoriasis. In one study, Tazorac was found to be more effective than placebo in reducing the symptoms of psoriasis. The study found that Tazorac improved the symptoms of psoriasis in 78% of participants, compared to only 8% of participants who received placebo.
Acne
Tazorac has also been shown to be effective in treating acne. In one study, Tazorac was found to be more effective than placebo in reducing the number of pimples in people with acne. The study found that Tazorac reduced the number of pimples by 48% in people with acne, compared to only 9% in people who received placebo.
Wrinkles
Tazorac has also been shown to be effective in reducing wrinkles. In one study, Tazorac was found to be more effective than placebo in reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The study found that Tazorac improved the appearance of wrinkles by 36% in people with wrinkles, compared to only 4% in people who received placebo.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Tazorac include skin irritation, dryness, and redness. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions and skin infections.
If you experience any side effects, stop using Tazorac and talk to your doctor.
Dosage
Tazorac is available in cream and gel form. It is applied to the skin once or twice a day.
The amount of Tazorac that you should use depends on your condition. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully.
If you are using Tazorac for acne, it may take several weeks before you see any improvement. If you are using Tazorac for wrinkles, it may take up to six months before you see any improvement.
Interactions
Tazorac may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor all medications and supplements that you are taking.
Tazorac is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
Tazorac is not recommended for use in children under the age of 18.
Tazorac may increase your risk for skin infections. Avoid close contact with people who have infections.
Tazorac may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun and avoid sun exposure during peak hours. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when you are outdoors.
Mechanism of Action
Tazorac works by preventing the formation of new skin cells and promoting the turnover of existing skin cells. Tazorac belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A.
Retinoids work by binding to receptors in the skin and inhibiting the production of new skin cells. This action helps to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis, acne, and wrinkles.
How Long Does It Take for Tazorac to Work?
If you are using Tazorac for acne, it may take several weeks before you see any improvement. If you are using Tazorac for wrinkles, it may take up to six months before you see any improvement.
Pharmacokinetics
Tazorac is applied to the skin and is absorbed into the body. Tazorac is metabolized by the liver and excreted in the urine.
The half-life of Tazorac is unknown.
Protein Binding
Tazorac is not bound to proteins in the blood.
Alternatives to Tazorac
There are many alternative treatments for psoriasis, acne, and wrinkles. Some common treatments include topical corticosteroids, light therapy, and oral medications.
Topical corticosteroids are a type of anti-inflammatory medication that is applied to the skin. Common topical corticosteroids include clobetasol propionate (Temovate) and betamethasone dipropionate (Diprolene).
Light therapy is a type of treatment that uses ultraviolet light to improve the symptoms of psoriasis, acne, and wrinkles. Common light therapies include narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) therapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT).
Oral medications are a type of medication that is taken by mouth. Common oral medications include acitretin (Soriatane), methotrexate (Rheumatrex), and cyclosporine (Neoral).
